I just got off the phone with ASGI customer support regarding the KWA M1911DS; apparently, it will go on sale for the "May Shocker" this week. I was looking for another GBB side-arm and came upon this model. Although it is not a "true" M1911, I like the over style and features. My question is this: Has KWA discontnued this model? The customer support representative told me that KWA was looking at re-releasing it due to popular demand. I would really prefer to purchase a gun that I can easily acquire parts for; I was also considering the M9 PTP, any feedback or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

I can't say whether KWA is re-releasing the DS line, as I have no info on that.

However, I have owned the M9 PTP Tactical, it was an excellent pistol. The range was pretty ridiculous with .28's and GG or propane. The only thing I did not like about the M9 was that the magazines would aquire slow leaks every now and then and need to be resealed.

I have not owned, but have handled, fired, and fielded the 1911DS on multiple occasions. I had several team mates that owned them and ran them into the ground. The gun is a tank, and functioned great in all weather conditions - even below freezing temperatures - you can see for yourself from an old video on youtube, search "1911ds tas801". To this day that gun in the video is still going strong even though it rarely sees lube or any cleaning patches :/

Honestly, I think you should go with what model you like best because they are both awesome pistols and you can't go wrong with either one.

I have also seen the DS in stock at ASGI, but I don't think it's necessarily a re release. It's possible KWA never actually discontinued the model but rather put production on hold while they focused on other more popular products. I'm sure it you needed parts that aren't on the pro shop you could always call up KWA and ask them if what you need is available.

Whether it's discontinued or not, we DO know that ASGI still has some and they are willing to get rid of em! I would assume that they are discontinued (temporarily?, I don't know) though, because the KWA website doesn't advertise it any more.

A buddy of mine has the 1911DS as well and loves it. Fields it for most of the same reasons mentioned here. It's a tank and shoots great. His biggest problem for the gun is he says he can't find any extra magazines for the life of him in stock anywhere. I believe he even asked about where he could maybe find some in the staff chat session on Friday but never got it figured out.